The Declaration of Independence


Social Studies American History American Revolution The Declaration of Independence
Students brainstorm freedoms that they enjoy. Then they examine the structure of the Declaration of Independence. Next they focus on the preamble to determine the purpose of the document and the famous sentence “We hold these truths to be self-evident…” Finally, they have a small group discussion about the importance of the Declaration of Independence.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

1:1 Devices
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Here are the teacher pack items for The Declaration of Independence:

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Overview

In this experience, students brainstorm freedoms that they enjoy. Then they examine the structure of the Declaration of Independence. Next they focus on the preamble to determine the purpose of the document and the famous sentence “We hold these truths to be self-evident…” Finally, they have a small group discussion about the importance of the Declaration of Independence.

Students will collaborate in small groups for scene 2 to scene 4.

Estimated duration: 40-50 minutes

Vocabulary words:

  • preamble
  • course
  • dissolve
  • decent
  • impel

Objectives

  • Explain the purpose of the Declaration of Independence.
  • Analyze the importance of the Declaration of Independence.


Engage


The Declaration of Independence is considered a revolutionary document with a revolutionary statement. In this experience you will learn about the Declaration of Independence, the historical document that our Founding Fathers wrote to tell the world that from this moment onward, the colonies would no longer consider themselves under British rule.

Objectives

  • Explain the purpose of the Declaration of Independence.
  • Analyze the importance of the Declaration of Independence.


photo of a girl looking at birds flying in the sky; she is making wing shapes with her uplifted arms

There is a figure of speech in English: “free as a bird”


In a word or short phrase, name a freedom that you enjoy.

Post your answer

Students may answer at a personal level (freedom to choose my bedtime, freedom to budget my allowance) or at a more general level (freedom of speech, freedom to get an education, freedom to travel). Discuss student responses with the class.


Divide students into their small groups for the next three scenes. When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

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